Point Lowly, in the northern Spencer Gulf is the only known site in the world where Giant Australian Cuttlefish (Sepia apama) form dense spawning aggregations. Research to date has shown a significant decline in Giant Cuttlefish populations at the Point Lowly aggregation site, although the cause of the decline remains unclear.
In May 2012, the State Government took steps to provide further protection to Giant Cuttlefish by adding an extension to the existing Point Lowly cephalopod fishing closure area. While research to date indicates that commercial and recreational fishing activity is not considered to pose a threat to Giant Cuttlefish populations, this precautionary measure was taken to afford a maximum level of protection for Giant Cuttlefish breeding aggregations.
Recognising that the issues facing Cuttlefish populations in northern Spencer Gulf are complex, in July 2012 the Cuttlefish working group was formed to investigate and address the issues associated with the population, and to provide advice to the Government regarding the ongoing protection and sustainability of this iconic population.
In March 2013, the State Government announced an additional $150 000 for new research into changes in Giant Cuttlefish populations. Funding has been committed to ongoing monitoring of the Point Lowly aggregation area this year. The working group is also considering additional research priorities that can be implemented for the 2013 breeding season, which is expected to commence from May.
Scott Ashby
Cuttlefish Working Group Chair
Chief Executive, Primary Industries and Regions SA
Get the full PDF here – Cuttlefish Update – 24 April 2013